Brisbane schoolie kind, fun-loving: family

The family of a Brisbane boy who died in Fiji while celebrating schoolies have described him as a beautiful, kind and fun-loving young man.

Harrison Kadell, the 17-year-old vice-captain of St Thomas More Catholic College, was found floating in a resort swimming pool on Fiji's Plantation Island on Tuesday morning.

The cause of his death is unknown but there are unconfirmed reports he was playing a "breath dare game".

The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) released a statement from the boy's family.

"Obviously, our hearts are breaking," they say.

"Harrison was a beautiful, kind, well-respected and fun-loving young man."

They say it was a "privilege" and a "joy" to have Harrison as part of their family.

"We are proud that he is ours and very grateful that he was with us for almost 18 years," he said.

"We have been enveloped by love and support by our family and friends and feel truly blessed."

The family thanked the Australian and Fiji governments, the Queensland Police Department, their solicitors, airlines Air Pacific and Virgin Pacific for their support.

They say they are also grateful for the respect we have been shown by the media.

"Our concern now is for Harrison's mates still here in Fiji as well as returning our son home to Australia," they said.

"We request privacy at this difficult time."

Earlier, St Thomas More Catholic College principal Peter Elsome said the family was in a state of shock and grief.

"Harrison ... was an outstanding young man and someone that the family were extremely proud of. To take that horrible phone call, it certainly has ripped the family apart," Mr Elsome told the Seven Network.

Asked about reports Harrison was playing a dare game when he died, Mr Elsome said he wouldn't speculate and his focus was on supporting the school and the community.

"All I can say is that Harrison was an outstanding student, a very, very sensible young man," he said.

"At this particular point in time we should be remembering Harrison for what he has done."

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